Bonzo

The life of John Bonham, the drummer of Led Zeppelin, was cut short prematurely in 1980 due to an episode of extreme consumption of alcohol one night. He was planning to go on another tour with the band, and had plans of working on many musical projects in the years to come, which sadly could never be completed. As unfortunate as this incident was for the world of Rock and Roll, the Bonham family was left without the doting father, the amazing husband, the caring brother, and the loving son in John Henry Bonham.

Bonzo, as he was known as in the band, led a predictable yet erratic life. His love for drums was paramount. His drinking and anger issues were well known. His pull towards spending more time with family was evident. His desire to be recognized and revered was strong. His love for music and understanding of rhythm and groove was respected.

In a short time of slightly longer than a decade, Bonzo established himself as the most iconic drummer alongside Keith Moon of The Who. The unique sound and feel he managed to produce would be analyzed and talked about by many musicians of the future.

Bonzo's untimely death brought forward the end of Led Zeppelin, who could not go on without the power and punch of John Bonham. His legacy would live on within the scores of influenced drummers. His son would carry the name forward by living a life of a dedicated son who paid tribute to his father through various projects. Page, Plant, and Jones, the rest of Led Zeppelin, would remark on how similar father and son were in terms of drumming, but would still miss the presence of their pal. They would embark on their own musical journey without Bonzo, and keep him in their hearts and soul every time they played, because Led Zeppelin may not be what they used to be, but the song remains the same.